Ozark

Marty Byrde moves his family to the Missouri Ozarks with a plan to survive a money-laundering disaster. The plan requires dealing with people who already live and operate there, and who have little reason to accommodate his needs.

Jason Bateman's controlled manner is a useful contrast to the danger. Marty can make a desperate proposal sound like a practical business adjustment. Laura Linney gives Wendy ambitions and instincts that do not always fit his calculations, while Julia Garner's Ruth prevents the newcomers from owning the story.

The pressure is relentless, sometimes to the point that another escalation feels less surprising than inevitable. The stronger material concerns what the family will agree to do together and how long they can describe each decision as necessary.

For viewers who enjoy the justifications in Breaking Bad, this is a compelling neighbouring crime drama. It is less carefully controlled, but the performances give the struggle enough force to remain involving when the plotting grows extravagant.